How to Upgrade SQL Server from 2005 to a higher version and transfer your Dental System database

Important: Steps described below include manipulations with Microsoft SQL database. 3Shape cannot take responsibility for any possible data loss as the result of the steps suggested below. Proceed at your own risk.

Upgrading from SQL Server 2005 to a newer version is essential for maintaining security, performance, and compatibility with modern applications. However, the upgrade process can be challenging.

This article explains different methods for preparing backup file, upgrading SQL Server 2005, highlights useful tools and best practices, and provides tips to ensure a smooth transition while improving the overall user experience.

Important: Dental System 2024 and above is not compatible with Microsoft SQL Server 2005. Please ensure you follow each step exactly as described and in the given order. Skipping or modifying any steps may lead to unexpected issues during the SQL upgrade process such as data loss. 

If you attempt to install Dental System 2024 while still using SQL Server 2005, you may receive the following error and as the result installation will not be completed:

“Dental System 2024 does not support Microsoft SQL Server 2005. To proceed with the upgrade, update of the database to a supported version of Microsoft SQL Server (2017 or newer) is required. Please contact support for more information.”

To avoid this issue, please follow the instructions below to back up your Dental System database, uninstall existing 3Shape SQL instance, upgrade SQL Server, and restore your data.

        1. Create Dental System Database Backup

Before upgrading, it is crucial to back up your existing database.

One way to create a backup is by using the SQL Server command-line tool from the Command Prompt:

Press Windows button

Type cmd > right click > run as administrator 

Run the following command: OSQL -S.\threeshapedental -Usa -P3SDMdbmspw -n -Q "BACKUP DATABASE DentalManager TO DISK='[backup location]\[backup name].backup'" (update the paths and filenames accordingly) > Press Enter

Note: 

• Replace [backup location] with an existing folder path.
• Choose any backup name but keep the .backup extension.
• Backup must be created in one file.

A backup file with the chosen name will be created in the previously chosen folder:

After running this command, you will see a confirmation in the Command Prompt and a backup file will be created.

Alternatively, it is possible to create Dental System backup using SQL Server Management Studio.

Important: In case you are using Dental Desktop 1.6.9.1 (or older) to create cases outside of Dental System workflow, repeat this step for DentalDesktop database. It is required to stop DentalDestopServer service before creating the backup.
 

       2. Uninstall MSSQL Server 2005 (THREESHAPEDENTAL) instance only

Note: Before removing SQL Server, make sure, there is no other software, that may use already installed SQL Server on the same PC. We strongly recommend reading through the entire guide before starting the upgrade. 

Consider that deleting SQL instance irreversibly destroys all data contained into. That's why it is crucial to create a full backup before proceeding further. 

Steps to uninstall existing instance: 

1. Go to Programs and Features
2. Find Microsoft SQL Server 2005 in the list > Click Uninstall
3. In the SQL Server Installation Wizard, select Remove SQL Server Instance > select the instance you want to remove - THREESHAPEDENTAL

      4. Select all features in the checkbox as shown on the screenshot below

      5. Follow the steps until the SQL Server is completely removed.

      6. Reboot PC

       3. Install THREESHAPEDENTAL instance by running Dental System installer.

Run Dental System installer as administrator in order to install SQL Server 2017 as well as the new 3Shape instance. 

Note: If you encounter any installation issues, please contact 3Shape Support for further technical assistance (support@3shape.com)      

        4. Restore Backup of Dental System Database

To restore previously created backup, use the Command Prompt:

Press Windows button

Type cmd > right click > run as administrator 

Press Enter

Run the following command: OSQL -S.\threeshapedental -Usa -P3SDMdbmspw -n -Q "RESTORE DATABASE DentalManager FROM DISK='[backup location]\[backup name].backup'" WITH REPLACE > Press Enter

Replace [backup location] and [backup name] with your backup file’s path and name. After running this command, you will see a confirmation in the Command Prompt as shown on the screenshot below:

Alternatively, it is possible to restore Dental System backup using SQL Server Management Studio.

Important: In case you have been using Dental Desktop 1.6.9.1 (or older) to create cases outside of Dental System workflow before proceeding with this guide, repeat this step for DentalDesktop database after updating to a newer version of Dental Desktop. It is required to stop DentalDestopServer service before restoring the backup.

Your Dental System should now work with SQL Server 2017.

If you need any assistance, please reach out to 3Shape Support.